EMC

Overvoltage: causes and consequences

In the world of modern technology, users of telephone, telematics and IT systems are increasingly confronted with the challenges of decreasing reliability and limited operational safety. The consequences can be serious. Why? Here are the reasons:

• Microchips and susceptibility to interference

  The use of microchips has increased the sensitivity of electronic devices. Due to the tiny insulation distances in the micrometre range, even a slight overvoltage can trigger a chain reaction effect that can damage chips.

• Networking and external interference

  The explosion of computer networking means that countless data lines and power supply lines are exposed to various external disturbances.

Causes of power surges

• Thunderstorms and lightning

  The breathtaking power of lightning can cause enormous damage and endanger electronic systems

• Industrial surges

  The use of machines such as fluorescent tubes, photocopiers and computers themselves generates strong overvoltages.

• Electrostatic surges

  These are often caused by people and can damage sensitive electronic systems.

• NEMP (nuclear electromagnetic pulse)

  NEMP occurs during nuclear explosions in the atmosphere and generates intense electromagnetic fields that affect the earth

Protect yourself from power surges

Whether lightning or industrial overvoltage, damage to electronic systems is avoidable. For example, a classic lightning rod can capture the lightning and safely channel the discharge current. And there are other protective measures to minimize overvoltages.

Consequences of surges

Overvoltages can cause destruction, malfunctions and premature ageing of electronic devices. Protect your devices to extend their service life

Standards and Woertz protection

International standards have been developed to test the sensitivity of electronic devices to overvoltages. Woertz offers effective protection against all known types of overvoltage in the telecommunications, IT, power supply and military RF transmission sectors.

Your customers can rely on your products and solutions to protect them from the effects of surges.